Christopher Keith Irvine, popularly known as Chris Jericho, is a name that resonates with wrestling enthusiasts worldwide. Born on November 8, 1970, in Manhasset, New York, Jericho’s journey in the world of professional wrestling has been nothing short of spectacular.
Early Beginnings
Jericho’s passion for wrestling was evident from a young age. He began his professional wrestling training at 19 and quickly made a name for himself on the independent circuit. His early years saw him wrestling in various Canadian, European, Mexican, and Japanese promotions. His talent and dedication soon led him to ECW, where he clinched the ECW Television Championship before moving to WCW.
Rise in WCW
In WCW, Jericho’s initial role was that of an enhancement talent. However, his prowess couldn’t be overlooked for long. He soon captured the WCW Cruiserweight Championship by defeating Syxx. His feuds with Eddie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio, and Dean Malenko are still remembered by fans. One of his most iconic moments was the “The Man of 1,004 Holds” promo during his rivalry with Malenko.
Dominance in WWE
Jericho’s transition to WWE in 1999 was marked by a memorable debut where he confronted The Rock. Over the years, he won the Intercontinental Championship nine times and became the first-ever Undisputed WWF Champion. His feuds with legends like Triple H, Shawn Michaels, and Goldberg showcased his versatility in the ring and on the microphone.
His partnership with Kevin Owens was one of the highlights of his WWE career, with the duo captivating audiences with their chemistry. Jericho’s time in WWE was marked by multiple championship wins, unforgettable moments, and classic matches.
Adventures in NJPW
Post-WWE, Jericho ventured into New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). His matches against Kenny Omega and Tetsuya Naito were critically acclaimed. He even managed to capture the NJPW Intercontinental Championship, further solidifying his legacy.
AEW Era
In 2019, Jericho became a pivotal figure in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). He defeated Hangman Page to become the inaugural AEW World Champion. His formation of “The Inner Circle” stable, comprising Santana, Ortiz, Sammy Guevara, and Jake Hager, dominated AEW storylines. Jericho’s feuds with Jon Moxley, The Elite, and MJF showcased his ability to reinvent himself and remain relevant in the ever-evolving wrestling landscape.
Recently, after a series of internal conflicts within The Inner Circle, Jericho formed a new faction called the Jericho Appreciation Society. This group has been involved in high-profile feuds with stars like Eddie Kingston, Santana, and Ortiz.
Beyond Wrestling
Apart from wrestling, Jericho has showcased his talents in various films and television shows. Some of his notable appearances include “Android Apocalypse,” “Albino Farm,” “Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!” and “Jay and Silent Bob Reboot.”
Legacy
Chris Jericho’s career is a testament to his dedication, passion, and ability to adapt. From his early days in the independent circuit to his current role in AEW, Jericho has consistently delivered memorable moments and matches. His legacy is not just that of a great wrestler but also of an entertainer who has left an indelible mark on the industry.
